Antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus type I and type II | P24 protein (antigen)

General Information

Antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus types I and II

The human immunodeficiency virus type I and II antibody test is a serological test that checks whether a person has an immune response (antibodies) to the human immunodeficiency virus.

The test also detects the HIV-specific protein P24.

The p24 antigen is a specific HIV protein that forms the "core" (capsid) of the virus and appears in high concentrations in the blood early in the infection. That is why its detection is important to confirm the presence of the virus.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)Is the etiological agent of human immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is a retrovirus that has the ability to infect and destroy Helper T lymphocytes.

There are two types of HIV (HIV-1 and HIV-2), which differ from each other by geographical area and in turn have subtypes.

The test can be performed approximately 11–30 days after infection, which is earlier than with an antibody test.

HIV is transmitted through contaminated blood and blood products, sexual contact, and from an infected mother during and after childbirth. The main risk groups are: homosexuals, blood recipients, intravenous drug users, and medical personnel.

The production of antibodies against HIV-1 and HIV-2 is detectable 4-12 weeks after infection and their persistence continues throughout life.